Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT)

Now Offering Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy (Image-Guided SRT)

At Rao Dermatology, we’re proud to offer Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy (Image-Guided SRT)—a highly effective, nonsurgical treatment for non-melanoma skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

This innovative therapy uses low-energy X-rays to precisely target and destroy cancer cells while sparing surrounding healthy tissue. It's a gentle alternative to surgery, offering excellent cosmetic outcomes, minimal side effects, and no downtime.

What Is Image-Guided SRT?

Image-Guided SRT is a non-invasive treatment that combines imaging technology with low-dose superficial radiation. The imaging allows your dermatologist to see the exact shape and depth of the tumor before each session, ensuring precision and safety throughout your treatment.

This therapy is ideal for patients seeking a non-surgical alternative to MOHS surgery and is especially beneficial for cosmetically sensitive areas such as the face, ears, scalp, and legs.

What to Expect During Treatment

You'll be comfortably seated while a gel is applied to the treatment area.
An imaging wand is used to visualize the tumor and measure its exact size and shape.
Using this image, we customize the radiation dose and define the precise treatment zone.
A treatment arm is then placed over the area, delivering a safe and accurate dose of X-ray energy.
The healthy tissue around the site is preserved.

Each session typically lasts 20 minutes or less, and most patients complete their treatment over 4 to 7 weeks, with sessions scheduled a few times per week.

Why Choose Image-Guided SRT?

No surgery, no cutting, no stitches
No scarring or need for reconstructive surgery
Quick, in-office treatment (20 minutes or less)
No anesthesia required
Minimal recovery time
Low risk of infection or nerve damage
Excellent cosmetic results
Over a 99% cure rate, comparable to or better than MOHS surgery

How Is Image-Guided SRT Different From Other Radiation Therapies?

Not all radiation therapies are the same. At Rao Dermatology, we use Image-Guided SRT with adaptive radiotherapy protocols to ensure the highest level of precision, safety, and effectiveness. This advanced approach has been shown to produce superior cure rates and cosmetic outcomes compared to other radiation-based options.

For more information, visit GentleCure.com.

Real Results, High Satisfaction

More than 40,000 patients have chosen Image-Guided SRT for their skin cancer treatment. In a recent satisfaction survey:

You can hear more about patient experiences at GentleCure Patient Stories.

Possible Side Effects

Image-Guided SRT is generally well tolerated. Potential side effects may include:

These effects typically resolve within 2 to 6 weeks after treatment ends. In rare cases (less than 5%), there may be a risk of developing a secondary skin cancer 20–40 years after treatment.

Insurance & Cost

Most insurance plans cover Image-Guided SRT, but out-of-pocket costs vary based on your plan and deductible. Our team will work directly with your insurance provider to determine your coverage and help you understand any costs before treatment begins.

Meet Your Care Team

Your Dermatologist

Your provider will guide you through the decision-making process, help determine if Image-Guided SRT is right for you, and oversee your personalized treatment plan. Your provider will monitor your progress and address any concerns throughout the course of your therapy.

Your Radiation Therapist (RTT)

A licensed Radiation Therapist Technologist will be with you during each treatment session to ensure your comfort, answer questions, and monitor your progress. Our radiation therapists are licensed in the state of California and are proud members of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists and the American Society of Radiologic Technologists.

Learn More or Schedule a Consultation

If you've been diagnosed with skin cancer and are considering your treatment options, schedule a consultation with Rao Dermatology today to find out if Image-Guided SRT is right for you. We're here to support you with personalized, compassionate care—every step of the way.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

TESTIMONIALS

“I have been going to Dr. Rao for a few years, and am very satisfied with the quality of service and care.”

Sidney, Rao Dermatology Patient

“Both my husband and I have visited Rao Dermatology for over 20 years.”

Lisa, Rao Dermatology Patient

“The best dermatologist I have ever seen.”

Haley, Rao Dermatology Patient

“He is very professional and caring about any concern you have.”

- Rao Dermatology Patient

"Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. My daughter has been treated for over 3 years elsewhere and our new insurance sent us here. I cannot believe how fast they acted to keep my daughter on track with the only treatment that has worked."

- Rao Dermatology Patient

"The staff is incredibly friendly and helpful. I went in about a year ago to help get rid of my acne and my skin has never been better. They're usually on track with their appointment times so you're in and out in a timely manner. They've also helped diagnose and treat my husbands psoriasis."

- Rao Dermatology Patient

"This office is great and I am glad that we were able to come here. They give you a lot of information, and sometimes it's hard to process/remember, but they are very patient until you understand. I would definitely recommend them."

- Rao Dermatology Patient

"My experience has always been awesome here in Hanford. The staff are wonderful and make you feel like family!!!!"

- Rao Dermatology Patient

"Love the staff, everyone is so nice and friendly"

- Rao Dermatology Patient

- Cassidy

"Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. We recently lost our insurance. ( anthem pulled out of central cal) my daughter has been treated for over 3 years elsewhere and our new ins sent us here. I cannot believe how fast they acted to keep my daughter on track with the only treatment that has worked. They took us in on short notice. Squeezed us in at 730am to accommodate us. ( we live an hour away ) and did everything possible to make sure my daughter had what she needed. My daughter was so worried. Dr Rao made everything all good. Sounds kinda silly but unless you have a 14 1/2 year old daughter you just cannot understand how important their service was today. Holly, griselle , all top notch. All I can say is thank you again."

- Matt

"I have been coming to Rao Dermatology for a few months . And it is my Honor to say that all the Staff are VERY PROFESSIONAL AND RESPECTFUL. All the Ladies are very Beautiful and are so concerned about their patients. Their Happy Attitudes are contagious. Love them all. Thank You Dr. Rao and Ladies. I look forward to my next appointment."

- James

"Doctor Rao has been my dermatologist for 6 years. He is one of the foremost authorities on skin cancer in the country, but what really makes him special is the way he communicates his knowledge to his patients. He is an excellent doctor, and has removed several moles for me with minimal or no scarring. He is also very cautious and not aggressive about treatment, and always puts the health of his patients first. I would recommend him to anyone looking for a great dermatologist, whether for skin cancer or cosmetic purposes."

- Anna

"I have been going to this office for a few months and everyone in this office is extremely friendly and is able to answer all questions I have asked. I have been going weekly for acne treatments and have seen great results so far. I also had a cyst removed a few weeks ago and have zero complaints."

- Angela

"I was treated with excellent customer service! Everyone was so friendly! The girls in the front were more than willing to answer all my questions and help me select the best product for my face! The room assistants were great and were there to answer any other questions I had. The clinicians were very specific on what treatment would be best for my condition and they were right! It worked! I would recommend this office to everyone!!! It was by far the most caring group of professionals I have ever had. It wasn't just a business but it was a place where I could go and know I was well taken care of no matter how severe the case is. They are the best!"

- Trisha